Month: March 2022

Interview with Chester County Kokikai Founder Jason Martin: The Silent Pioneer and Kokikai Aikido

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Growing up with a fascination for the martial arts, it was no wonder Jason Martin found himself in an aikido school under Philadelphia pioneer Shuji Maruyama. Since then, he has continued following the teachings of Maruyama, even opening his own school, Chester County Kokikai Dojo in 2010, spreading what he learned from the Silent Aikido … Continue reading Interview with Chester County Kokikai Founder Jason Martin: The Silent Pioneer and Kokikai Aikido

Kendo in Hawaii: Abridged

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This history is based on the Hawaiian kenshi interviews published through this chronicle, while using a handful of outside sources to provide historical or social context. This history, unfortunately, is not a complete one, however, it is one step closer to achieving a clearer picture of how the art evolved and changed on the Hawaiian … Continue reading Kendo in Hawaii: Abridged

The Misrepresentation of Martial Arts by Michael Aloia

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Traditionally, within the context of modern times, martial arts have served as a way for the everyday person to participate in what's considered an ethnically and culture-based – even stylized – form or system of self-empowerment. The benefits have always included a level of better fitness, health, and well-being to physically and mentally live fuller … Continue reading The Misrepresentation of Martial Arts by Michael Aloia

Interview with West Chester University Judo Club President Matt Toole: It’s Good to be President

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Matt Toole is the president of the West Chester Judo Club, where the interviewee first started judo. Today, Toole took some time to talk about the club and his ascension to club president. All images courtesy of the West Chester Judo Club. Martial Arts of Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow: Hello and welcome! It’s great to … Continue reading Interview with West Chester University Judo Club President Matt Toole: It’s Good to be President

Interview with Berk Fencing Club Member Zachary Sturgis: The Excitement of the Sport

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Beginning to fence was like a dream come true for Zachary Sturgis. Starting at the young age of twelve, Sturgis has taken to the sport and its history, constantly honing his craft. At the time of the interview, he lives in Italy, training under Marco Vannini and Dario Finetti. Today, Sturgis took some time to … Continue reading Interview with Berk Fencing Club Member Zachary Sturgis: The Excitement of the Sport